Devotional:‘What is This Among So Many?’

“A certain woman was preparing a box to be sent to some missionaries in India. A child gave her a penny, which she used to purchase a tract for the box. Eventually this tract reached a Burmese chief and was used to lead him to a saving knowledge of Christ. The chief told the story of his conversion to his friends, many of whom believed. Eventually a church was established there and over 1,500 natives were converted to Christianity.”

In the heart of every believer there is the desire to be used by God; yet some do little because they believe that a little is all they can do. But if we would only wholeheartedly serve God with the abilities He has given us, who knows what great things He might help us do.

“Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down with his disciples. The Jewish Passover Feast was near. When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do. Philip answered him, “Eight months’ wages would not buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!” Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and the men sat down, about five thousand of them. Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish. When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” So, they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten. After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” (John 6:3-14)

Many of us view ourselves as insignificant, yet who knows how God could use us if only we were more like the boy with his lunch. One believer, on fire for God, could energize a Sunday School class, spread through a church and begin a nation-wide revival. One children’s worker, faithfully teaching the Word of God, could impact dozens of future homes and marriages. One choir member, singing with genuine worship, could dramatically impact someone else who might be watching or listening. One kind word of greeting to someone visiting our church might calm many of their fears and help them come to know Christ.